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Silent Auction

Hello, BYO Families!

Here's what you need to know to help make our 42nd Anniversary Silent Auction a big success!

What happens at this event: The Silent Auction will be held in the Lobby of the Laney College Theater before and during the intermission of the Final Concert on May 13. This event will include great food, wine, fabulous people, and, of course, wonderful music! It will be a unique opportunity to get great deals on art and jewelry, plays and concerts, weekends away, fine dining, and much more.

Why we need you: The Silent Auction is BYO's primary way of raising money for scholarships. Many of our talented musicians would not be able to participate without this financial help. Last year 20 of our 100 musicians were financially assisted! We'd like to be able to help even more next year!

What we're asking: We are asking each BYO family to obtain an auction item, or items, worth at least $50. These items can be requested from businesses in the community, obtained from your own personal contacts, or created by you. If you do not have time to find a donation, you can instead donate $50 (or any amount) for this cause. Please make a check payable to BYO.

Some suggestions for whom to ask: When considering possible donors, think about where you shop in your community and what’s important to you. What would you bid on if you had the chance? Successful auction items might include:

  • Weekend getaways, vacation homes, or hotel rooms
  • Tickets to your favorite symphony, theater, opera or jazz club
  • Gift cards for local businesses
  • Catered dinners delivered to your door
  • Services such as estate planning, architectural consultation and music lessons

Some merchants do not have an item or service that they can donate, but may like to be involved in our fundraising efforts. We welcome donations. Any business that makes a cash donation of $250 or more is considered a Sponsor and will be recognized in the program.

Some suggestions for how to get a donation All you have to do is ask and be excited about BYO. Consider bringing your child wearing their BYO sweatshirt with you when you approach someone for a donation.

  • Start with a quick phone call (or go in person) and briefly explain that you are from BYO and seeking donations for our biggest fundraiser of the year.
  • Approach merchants during the time of the day that is least busy for them. Avoid the lunch and dinner rush at restaurants.
  • Please mention that they may have had a letter sent to them and they may have sent in a donation already, and thank them if they did.
  • Then, offer to give or send them a letter with the details. Follow up immediately with the solicitation letter and donation certificate.

Other Options: If you are unable to obtain a donation, please make a cash contribution toward an item that we can purchase and offer at the auction. We would also welcome your help with a variety of tasks on our committee, including seeking donations, decorating, arranging gift baskets, and more.

Silent Auction Forms: Download, copy, and distribute as needed.
BYO Address